Planning a Surprise Proposal in Costa Rica: Interview with an Engaged Couple

Tell me a bit about yourselves -- where you're from, what you do, etc.

We currently live in Houston, TX. Shiloh is a Kindergarten teacher who loves teaching and spending time with kids. I work in sales for an electrical service company and I’m also going to school to get my MBA.

Was this your first time visiting Costa Rica

Yes, this was our first time visiting Costa Rica, but it will definitely not be our last.

Tell us about your surprise engagement and how it all went down!

Planning the perfect surprise proposal starts by making sure Shiloh packed the perfect dress and shoes without getting suspicious. Crossing my fingers that the ring would arrive on time, which arrived the day before we left. Along with choosing the perfect location, I wanted a photographer who loved the idea and would make the occasion as special as I wanted it for Shiloh.

What really made our engagement special was that it truly was a huge surprise to Shiloh, even though many times before she had told me she would know when it was going to happen. The day I proposed to her was actually our anniversary so when I told her I wanted to take her on a date, it didn’t seem out of place.

I took her dinner at Pangas in Tamerindo. The restaurant was like a scene out of a movie with white sands, candle light, and waves rolling in the background as the sun set. As we sat down I had realized I was so nervous that I had forgotten the ring in the car.

Ten minutes into sitting down the ring was burning a hole in my pocket. I knew the moment had come. As I got down on one knee I told Shiloh how much I loved her and that she was my best friend. I had found my soul mate. With the words “Will you marry me”? I received the sweetest “Yes” from the most beautiful, teary eyed girl. We laughed, cried, and hugged. Every moment was captured, full of emotion, by our photographer Genna.

Why did you choose Costa Rica for your surprise engagement?

I wanted a tropical location that was full of beauty for that special moment. Shiloh and I are also enjoy outdoor activities. Costa Rica has tons of things to do outdoors which made our whole vacation a blast.

Shiloh, how surprised were you?

I was completely speechless. From the location, the ring, and a photographer to capture every moment. It was definitely every girl’s dream come true.

Why do you think Tamarindo is the perfect spot?

Tamarindo is a tropical paradise. The scenery is breathtaking and the people are extremely friendly. It was our first time going there and the people there made it feel like our home.

Do you have any advice for people thinking of having a surprise proposal here? What you would have done differently?

The little details are what make the full experience worth every second.

I don’t think either of us would change a thing about that night, just make sure you don’t forget the ring.